Navy Pier is a must for military enthusiasts when you visit the San Diego waterfront. Undoubtedly the main attraction is the colossal USS Midway, the longest-serving military vessel of the 20th century and now the site of the San Diego Aircraft Museum. The museum offers a rare glimpse into military life thanks to the more than 20 restored aircraft on display, ranging from a World War II planes to a Desert Storm fighter plane. If you don’t have time to tour the museum, climb aboard the Midway’s deck for free and see impressive views over the San Diego waterfront.

Working Navy ships regularly dock at Navy Pier.

For views of another working military station, walk north to Broadway Pier. From here, you can look across the water to the North Island Naval Station where aircraft carriers and fighter jets are often docked.

Much of the appeal of Navy Pier comes down to its position on the San Diego waterfront. Stroll south and you’ll come across attractive green areas and the well-renowned Fish Market Restaurant – a wonderful location to enjoy a waterside bite in what was once the site of the biggest tuna fleets in the world. Continue on and you will reach the shops and restaurants of Seaport Village. Just beyond Seaport Village you’ll catch great views to the Coronado Peninsula across the water.